Can I add or change a passenger in my stateroom? | Direct Line Cruises Help Center

Yes, you can add or change a passenger on a cruise reservation, but there are important rules, deadlines, and potential fees that vary by cruise line and how close you are to the sailing date.

👤 1. Changing a Passenger (Name Change/Substitution)

Most cruise lines allow you to change a guest's name or substitute a new person, but:

It must be done before final payment is made, or by a certain cutoff date (usually up to 72 hours before departure).
A change fee may apply, depending on the cruise line and fare type.
At least one original passenger usually must remain on the reservation (especially for group or promotional rates).

🛑 After final payment or close to sailing:

Changes may be restricted, or treated as a cancellation and rebooking—which could lead to penalties or loss of deposit.

➕ 2. Adding a Passenger to an Existing Cabin

You may be able to add a 3rd or 4th guest to your cabin if:

Your stateroom can legally accommodate more guests (check the max occupancy).
The ship has not reached capacity for that age group (e.g., lifeboat capacity limits for children).
You add the person well before final payment or while availability lasts.

Expect to pay:

The prevailing cruise fare for the added guest (which may be lower than the first two passengers).
Additional taxes, fees, and gratuities.

📋 3. Documentation & Booking Considerations

You’ll need full legal information for any new or changed passenger: name, birth date, citizenship, and travel ID/passport details.
Ensure new guests meet all age, visa, and vaccination requirements.
Some cruise lines will require written consent for name changes or passenger substitutions.

🛳️ Cruise Line Examples:

Cruise Line	Name Change Allowed?	Add Passenger Allowed?	Notes
Royal Caribbean	✅ Yes (fees may apply)	✅ If space allows	Changes close to sailing may not be allowed
Carnival	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Must be requested before final documents are issued
Norwegian	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Name changes must occur at least 75 days before sailing
Celebrity	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Admin fees may apply
MSC Cruises	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	Must be submitted through guest services or travel agent

✅ In Summary:

Action	Is It Allowed?	Notes
Change a passenger's name	✅ Yes	Admin fees may apply; must be before cutoff
Replace one guest with another	✅ Often	At least one original guest must remain
Add a 3rd or 4th person to a cabin	✅ Yes	If cabin occupancy and availability allow

Tip: Contact Direct Line Cruises as early as possible to make changes—we will guide you through the exact rules for your specific booking.